Speaking after the match, which Brighton won 3-1, Charlton manager Jose Riga admitted the protests affected his players.

"When you see how we started, then you can say yes.

"This is not the first time we have faced this situation. We had the same game against Middlesbrough. We had to be very ready, we were not. The players of Brighton were ready but I don't want any excuse, we know the context.

"The players gave their all and competed. We had a good reaction in the second half and equalised."

He added: "Of course I'd prefer another atmosphere than this one.

"Communication will not be enough. It's about acting and showing some decisions now.

"I don't know the (whole) story. Charlton has a big past. The future can be a good future. I hope the right solution is found.

"That's what I hope for the club. We have to learn from our mistakes. It happens, relegation. We can build something. You see the story of Bournemouth. That is an inspiration for us and a lot of teams."

Sam Baldock opened the scoring for Brighton early on before Johann Gudmundsson hauled Charlton level six minutes into the second half.

Within minutes, Jiri Skalak restored the visitors' lead before Tomer Hemed's late penalty settled matters to ensure only goal difference is keeping Brighton out of the top two.